All Blacks star walking again after neck surgery

New Zealand openside flanker Sam Cane is "up and about" following a successful operation on his neck.

The 26-year-old suffered a fractured bone in his neck during the All Blacks’ 32-30 Rugby Championship win over the Boks in Pretoria.

He has since gone under the knife – and it was positive news to see an image released by the All Blacks of Cane walking after the surgery.

“Sam would like to thank everyone for all the support he has received from around the world, he is set to make a full recovery,” read a Twitter post from the national side, with team doctor Tony Page adding that the operation had been a success and Cane would soon fly home.

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The Chiefs and New Zealand back-row forward is likely to spend six weeks in a neck brace before he begins the next stage of his recovery.

Cane later tweeted: “A few things to be thankful for. Firstly, the circumference and strength of my neck, I may not be standing without it. Secondly, the world class medical and surgical team I have had in Pretoria, couldn’t have asked for anything more.

“Thirdly, for all the support I’ve received from family, friends, NZRU, SARU and all the messages from around the world. Really appreciate the messages, it means a lot. Please accept this as personal acknowledgement and thanks. Onwards and upwards.”